The week-long orientation program for new students has officially kicked off at the University’s Bethel Auditorium, designed to help them smoothly transition into campus life. The comprehensive schedule is packed with essential information and resources to prepare the fresh faces for academic and personal success. From safety tips to mental wellness, the program aims to address key aspects of student well-being, ensuring a smooth and confident start to their university journey.
The first day was particularly impactful, beginning with a session on faith development before transitioning to vital safety and security protocols. The focus then shifted to mental health, with counselors providing timely guidance on emerging challenges such as social media pressure, cohabitation, and the culture of immediate gratification. Students were also educated on common mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, and drug-induced psychosis, and were equipped with soft skills and career guidance. The day’s events offered a holistic perspective on the challenges and opportunities of campus life.
To further enrich the orientation, the University welcomed expert guest speakers. A team from the National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC), led by Regional Director Madam Qabale Nura, delivered a crucial session on HIV/AIDS prevalence and prevention. The team also highlighted pressing issues such as teenage pregnancies and gender-based violence, reinforcing the importance of making informed and healthy decisions.
The afternoon session continued this focus on student well-being with a presentation from the NACADA team. County Coordinator for Nakuru, Mr. Robert Olweny, led an insightful discussion on substance and drug abuse. The session provided valuable information, empowering new students to make smart choices and actively prevent drug abuse, an essential step toward a productive and healthy university experience.
The University’s orientation program proved to be an invaluable and comprehensive welcome for the new student body. The well-rounded sessions, from mental health awareness and career guidance to critical presentations on HIV/AIDS and substance abuse, equipped students with the tools needed not only to navigate campus life but also to make sound, healthy decisions. By bringing together University leadership and external experts like NACADA and NSDCC, the program successfully laid a strong foundation for a holistic and academically enriching journey for all the new students.
